Loretta Ann Chavez

Loretta Ann Chavez, 62 of Encino, NM, passed away at home, surrounded by her loving family, on Wednesday, December 21, 2022. Loretta was born on November 6, 1960 in Encino, NM to Lorenzo Garcia and Magdalena Ann (Apodaca) Garcia. A lifelong resident of Encino, Loretta married her husband, Edwin Chavez there in November 1991. Loretta was also a parishioner at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Encino, where she was the parish Mayordoma and a member of the choir. Loretta’s career included Office Manager for Hansen Aggregate for 23 years, as well as Clerk for the Village of Encino for 17 years. Loretta was also the Fire Chief and First Responder-EMT for Encino. Loretta helped many people in the village of Encino, often checking on family and friends. Some of Loretta’s hobbies included crocheting, embroidering and cooking--she also loved to eat sweets. However, her greatest joy came from the time she spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren—who particularly brightened her day. Loretta is preceded in death by her father: Lorenzo Garcia, maternal grandparents: Lucas and Aurora Apodaca, paternal grandparents: Juan and Dolores Garcia and her Godmother: Dorothy Montoya. Loretta is survived by her husband: Edwin Chavez, mother: Magdalena Garcia, brother: Ernie (Henrietta) Garcia, sister: Corina (Jeff) Sanchez, children: Matilda (Johnny) Griego, Jonathan (Patricia) Chavez, Heather (Kevin) Sanchez, Christina Chavez (Brianna Trujillo) and Kevin (Vanessa) Garcia and Loretta Castillo. Her grandchildren: Martin Griego, Irene Griego, Dionesia Chavez, Angelica Chavez, Mariah Sanchez, Angel Sanchez, Skyler Sanchez Abeyta, David Sanchez and Leanza Martinez and great-grandchildren: Aliah Mendez, Miaa Mendez and Kehlani Sanchez Villalpando, as well as numerous family, relatives and friends. Visitation for family and friends will take place on Monday, December 26, 2022, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Encino, NM from 10-11am. Recitation of The Most Holy Rosary, followed by The Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, December 26, 2022 at 11am, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Encino, with Father Timothy Meurer officiating. Burial will follow at Our Lady of Guadalupe Cemetery in Encino. Pallbearers will include: James Sanchez, Jerome Sanchez, Lonnie Apodaca, Martin Griego, David Sanchez, Justin Perry and Ruben Rodriguez. Services are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 923 S. Third St., Santa Rosa, NM 88435. 575-472-3369. To place an online condolence or tribute, please visit www.chavezfuneralhome.com.